Lecture on ‘UAE 7 Star Diplomacy’

H.E. Omar Al Bitar, former UAE Ambassador to China focused on the qualities of an ideal diplomat, highlighting his personal experiences in China and the strength of the UAE/China relations.

The pragmatic approach of the UAE towards its allies and neighbouring nations has enabled the country to build strong relations and play a key role in finding solutions to regional and international issues, stated His Excellency Omar Al Bitar, UAE Ambassador to China, while addressing a lecture on the topic ‘UAE 7 Star Diplomacy’ hosted by Emirates Diplomatic Academy on April 28th, 2016.

Highlighting the qualities of an ideal diplomat, HE Al Bitar said: “The citizens of a country expect their diplomats and soldiers to keep them safe, hence a diplomat should know that failures in handling a foreign policy could lead a nation to conflict or war.”

Describing his experiences in the field of diplomacy, HE Al Bitar said the UAE’s strong relationship with China reflects the strategic vision of the leadership which has enabled the country to emerge as an important business hub for China today.

Addressing the students of Emirates Diplomatic Academy, HE Al Bitar said: “As a diplomat, you represent your leadership, your people, your country and your culture abroad. You also serve your country’s national interests with loyalty to the leadership and the nation.” He also called upon the students to develop good geopolitical awareness in a changing world to be successful diplomats.

Speaking on the occasion, Bernardino Leon, Director General of the Academy, said: “The visit of HE Ambassador Omar Al Bitar to Emirates Diplomatic Academy was a crucial opportunity for our students to gain insights into the qualities that make a good diplomat. The key role HE Al Bitar played in building the UAE-China relationship is a great example of successful diplomacy. He is certainly a role model for all the young future diplomats in UAE.”

HE Ambassador Omar Al Bitar began his service as the UAE Ambassador to China in 2010. Prior to taking up his role as the Ambassador he was the Vice President Member of the PSUAD Management Council of the Paris Sorbonne University-Abu Dhabi from 2006 to 2009. He started his career as a Flight Commander in 1977. HE Al Bitar has represented the UAE in several conferences abroad and a number of projects for the UAE Armed Forces. He has also served as the Commander of the Khalifa Bin Zayed Air College. HE Omar Al Bitar has also represented the UAE in the Arms Control & Regional Security (ACRS) workshops from 1998 to 2005.

As the leading integrated academic centre in the region, EDA combines academic programmes and training, research and analysis to highlight the UAE’s leading role in international relations. The Academy also conducts in-depth studies on the region and the UAE to build a knowledge base in the field of international relations and diplomacy, and support the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and decision-makers in the UAE.